Bandwidth management in a client/server environment

ABSTRACT

A method of managing bandwidth usage among a plurality of client devices is provided. A request is received at a first device from a second device. The request is to transfer a file between the first device and the second device and includes an identifier of the second device. A client group associated with the second device is determined based on the identifier and used to select a bandwidth usage policy. A data transfer rate for transferring the file between the first device and the second device is determined based on the selected bandwidth usage policy and a bandwidth usage at the first device associated with a plurality of devices. A number of bytes to transfer is determined based on the determined data transfer rate and a time period. A response, which includes the determined number of bytes and the time period, is sent to the second device.

BACKGROUND

Computer systems are ubiquitous in today's work and home environments.The data stored on these computer systems, however, is vulnerable totheft, fire, flood, and other natural disasters. However, only 2% ofhome personal computers (PCs) are backed up regularly. PC users canperform their own backups using various media such as compact disks(CDs) or external hard drives. CDs and external hard drives can beexpensive and also are vulnerable to theft, fire, flood, and othernatural disasters. As a result, online backup services have beendeveloped to provide backup of home PCs. The home PCs, or clientcomputing devices, backup their files to and restore their files fromserver computing devices using a network such as the Internet.

A reliable, massive data storage system is needed to support a backupand restore system for a large number of client computing devices. Sucha data storage system should support high data rates while moving filesbetween the client computing devices and the file storage system.Additionally, such a system should provide for reliable data recovery inthe event of a disk failure associated with the file storage system.Further, such a system should manage use of the bandwidth associatedwith the backup and restore of a large number of client computingdevices.

SUMMARY

Example embodiments provide a backup and restore system for a computersystem that requires little if any interaction by the user. The exampleembodiments further provide a simple, safe, online backup system forcomputer users. Some or all of the data on a computer system can bebacked up whenever the computer system is connected to a network such asthe Internet. The example embodiments further provide a high-speed,reliable data storage system that supports recovery in the event of adisk failure. The example embodiments still further provide a flexiblebandwidth management mechanism for balancing the needs of multiplebackup system users.

In an example embodiment, a method of managing bandwidth usage among aplurality of client devices is provided. A request is received at afirst device from a second device. The request is to transfer a filebetween the first device and the second device and includes anidentifier of the second device. A client group associated with thesecond device is determined based on the identifier and used to select abandwidth usage policy. A data transfer rate for transferring the filebetween the first device and the second device is determined based onthe selected bandwidth usage policy and a bandwidth usage at the firstdevice associated with a plurality of devices. A number of bytes totransfer is determined based on the determined data transfer rate and atime period. A response, which includes the determined number of bytesand the time period, is sent to the second device

In another example embodiment, a computer-readable medium is providedcomprising computer-readable instructions that, upon execution by aprocessor, cause the processor to perform the operations of the methodof managing bandwidth usage among a plurality of client devices.

In yet another example embodiment, a device is provided. The deviceincludes, but is not limited to, a processor, a communication interface,and the computer-readable medium. The communication interface operablycouples to the processor. The communication interface is configured toreceive a request from a second device and to send a response to thesecond device. The computer-readable medium operably couples to theprocessor. The computer-readable medium comprises instructions that,upon execution by the processor, perform the operations of the method ofmanaging bandwidth usage among a plurality of client devices.

Other principal features and advantages of the invention will becomeapparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the followingdrawings, the detailed description, and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Example embodiments of the invention will hereafter be described withreference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like numerals denotelike elements.

FIG. 1 depicts a system that includes devices implementing a backup andrestore system in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 2 depicts a menu list of a backup and restore application inaccordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 3 depicts a user interface of a backup and restore application inaccordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating example operations performed by abackup application in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 5 depicts a first user interface of a file system in accordancewith an example embodiment.

FIG. 6 depicts a second user interface of the file system in accordancewith an example embodiment.

FIG. 7 depicts a third user interface of the file system in accordancewith an example embodiment.

FIG. 8 depicts a fourth user interface of the file system including apop-up menu in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 9 depicts a first user interface of a properties window inaccordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating example operations performed by arestore application in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 11 depicts a fifth user interface of the file system in accordancewith an example embodiment.

FIG. 12 depicts a sixth user interface of the file system in accordancewith an example embodiment.

FIG. 13 depicts a restore query window in accordance with an exampleembodiment.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram of a first device executing the backup andrestore system in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 15 depicts a server system of the system of FIG. 1 in communicationwith the first device to support the backup and restore of electronicfiles from the first device of FIG. 14 in accordance with an exampleembodiment.

FIG. 16 is a flow diagram illustrating example operations performed by afile system manager of the server system of FIG. 15 in accordance withan example embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a flow diagram illustrating example operations performed by abandwidth manager of the server system of FIG. 15 in accordance with anexample embodiment.

FIG. 18 depicts a grouping of client devices in the backup and restoresystem of FIG. 1 to support bandwidth management in accordance with anexample embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to FIG. 1, a system diagram of a backup and restoresystem 100 is shown in accordance with an example embodiment. Backup andrestore system 100 may include a server system 102, a plurality ofclient computing devices 104, and a network 106. There may be fewer oradditional networks in backup and restore system 100. For example,backup and restore system 100 may include a cellular network. Serversystem 102 may include a server 108 and a database 110.

In backup and restore system 100, the plurality of computing devices 104send and receive signals through network 106 to/from server system 102.Backup and restore system 100 can include any number and type ofcomputing devices 104 that may be organized into subnets. The pluralityof computing devices 104 may include computers of any form factor suchas a laptop 114, a desktop 112, an integrated messaging device, apersonal digital assistant 110, a cellular telephone 116, an IPod, etc.Backup and restore system 100 may include additional types of devices.The plurality of computing devices 104 communicate using varioustransmission media that may be wired or wireless as known to thoseskilled in the art. The plurality of client computing devices 104 maycommunicate information as peers in a peer-to-peer network using network106.

Server 108 includes or can access database 110 either through a directconnection or through a second network. Database 110 may include aplurality of databases that may be organized into multiple databasetiers to improve data management and access. Database 110 is a datarepository for backup and restore system 100. Database 110 may utilizevarious database technologies and a variety of different formats asknown to those skilled in the art including a file system, a relationaldatabase, and/or a system of tables, etc.

In an example embodiment, network 106 is the Internet. With reference toFIGS. 14 and 15, a user may use a browser application 1400 installed ata client computing device 104 a to access a web server application 1500hosted at server 108. Through interaction with web server application1500, the user may download and install a backup and restore application1412 at client computing device 104 a. Web server application 1500 maycontrol the display of multiple web pages that present information tothe user and from which the user may make selections. A web page maycontain links to other web pages with related or additional information.Each web page is identified by a uniform resource locator that includesthe location or address of the computer that contains the resource to beaccessed in addition to the location of the resource on that computer.The type of file or resource depends on the Internet applicationprotocol. For example, the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) maydescribe a web page to be accessed with browser application 1400.

After installation of backup and restore application 1412 at clientcomputing device 104 a, one or more processes may be instantiated atclient computing device 104 a to support the operations associated withbackup and restore application 1412. Message transmissions between theplurality of computing devices 104 and server 108 using network 106 maybe transmitted using HTTP over secure sockets layer (HTTPS). Othermethods may be used as known to those skilled in the art.

With reference to FIGS. 2 and 14, a menu list 200 for backup and restoreapplication 1412 is provided in accordance with an example embodiment.Menu list 200 may be accessed, for example, by right-clicking on anapplication icon 202 in a system tray of client computing device 104 aafter installation of backup and restore application 1412. Applicationicon 202 may change color or shape to indicate an overall status of thebackup processing at client computing device 104 a. For example,application icon 202 may change to a green color to indicate all filesselected for backup are currently backed up. Application icon 202 maychange to a yellow color to indicate that files are currently beingbacked up. Application icon 202 may change to a red color to indicatethat there is a problem associated with execution of backup and restoreapplication 1412.

Menu list 200 may include an open menu item 204, a recover mode menuitem 206, and a priority menu item 208. Menu list 200 may include feweror additional menu items. A user may select any of open menu item 204,recover mode menu item 206, and priority menu item 208 from menu list200 using an input interface 1404 as known to those skilled in the art.Selection of open menu item 204 opens a user interface window of backupand restore application 1412 which may be presented to a user of clientcomputing device 104 a, for example, using a display 1402.

Selection of recover mode menu item 206 causes backup and restoreapplication 1412 to enter a recover mode. The recover mode, for example,may be used when a user purchases a new computing device or replaces thehard drive in the current computing device. Recover mode may becontinued as long as needed, but, in an example embodiment, no backup isperformed while backup and restore application 1412 is in the recovermode. Without an entry into the recover mode, backup and restoreapplication 1412 may determine that all of the files on client computingdevice 104 a have been deleted and that the user would like to removethe files from backup.

After the files have been restored to the new computing device or thenew hard drive, backup and restore application 1412 may automaticallyexit the recover mode. Alternatively, a user may discontinue the recovermode by de-selecting recover mode menu item 206. In an exampleembodiment, application icon 202 in the system tray may change color orshape to indicate entry into the recover mode. An alert may be displayedin a user interface window of backup and restore application 1412 toadvise the user that backup processing has been suspended.

Selection of priority menu item 208 causes backup and restoreapplication 1412 to slow down its use of network 106 to avoidinterference with other network-intensive hardware/software. Forexample, upon selection of priority menu item 208, backup and restoreapplication 1412 may detect activity at client computing device 104 a.If activity is detected, backup processing may be stopped or thepriority of backup processing may be reduced.

Double-clicking on application icon 202 may open a user interface windowof backup and restore application 1412 which provides detailedinformation associated with backup and restore application 1412. Forexample, with reference to FIGS. 3 and 14, a user interface window 300of backup and restore application 1412 is provided in accordance with anexample embodiment. Backup and restore application 1412 may includeadditional user interface windows. User interface window 300 also may beaccessed, for example, by selecting open menu item 204 from menu list200. User interface window 300 may include a recover mode check box 302,a shutdown check box 304, a state indicator check box 306, and apriority check box 308. User interface window 300 may include fewer oradditional check boxes or other user interface controls. A user mayselect any of recover mode check box 302, shutdown check box 304, stateindicator check box 306, and priority check box 308 using inputinterface 1404.

Selection of recover mode check box 302 causes backup and restoreapplication 1412 to enter the recover mode. Selection of shutdown checkbox 304 causes backup and restore application 1412 to suspendpresentation of a text box to the user when the user shuts down clientcomputing device 104 a. If shutdown check box 304 is not selected, atext box is presented to the user to ask if client computing device 104a should be backed up before shutting down client computing device 104a. Selection of state indicator check box 306 causes backup and restoreapplication 1412 to show the backup status of electronic files in a userinterface displaying a file system of client computing device 104 a.Selection of priority check box 308 causes backup and restoreapplication 1412 to slow down its use of network 206 to avoidinterference with other network-intensive hardware/software.

With reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 4, and 14, example operations associatedwith a backup process are described. Additional, fewer, or differentoperations may be performed, depending on the embodiment. The order ofthe operations is not intended to be limiting. In an operation 400,backup and restore application 1412 is installed at client computingdevice 104 a. Backup and restore application 1412 may be downloaded andinstalled from a web page as known to those skilled in the art. In anoperation 402, a first process executing a backup/restore engine 1414 isinstantiated. The first process controls the monitoring of files tobackup and the transmission of files to server 108. In an operation 404,a second process executing a backup/restore user interface 1416 isinstantiated. In an example embodiment, the second process initiates aregistration process at client computing device 104 a, connects toserver 108, registers client computing device 104 a with server 108,downloads activation data from server 108, and starts backup serviceprocessing.

Backup/restore engine 1414 and backup/restore user interface 1416 run inthe background at client computing device 104 a to ensure that newand/or modified electronic files are backed up. Backup operations,however, may automatically be reduced to a low priority mode (forexample, by selection of priority menu item 208) when a user is activelyusing client computing device 104 a and may be increased when clientcomputing device 104 a is idle. For example, backup/restore engine 1414may detect keyboard and mouse activity to determine whether or not auser is actively using client computing device 104 a and to limit backupprocessing during active use. Backup processing may be reduced orstopped until expiration of a predetermined period of time during whichno activity is detected. For example, backup/restore engine 1414 may “goto sleep” until two minutes of inactivity have been detected.Additionally or in the alternative, backup and restore application 1412may reduce the packet size and/or may suspend packet streaming duringactive use. For example, the packet size may be reduced fromapproximately 8,000 bytes to approximately 1,400 bytes. Instead ofpacket streaming, a single packet may be sent at a time. Afteracknowledgement, another packet may be sent. After expiration of apredetermined period of time during which no activity is detected,backup operations may be reinitiated and/or the priority of backupprocessing increased. For example, after expiration of the predeterminedperiod of time during which no activity is detected, the packet size maybe increased from approximately 1,400 bytes to approximately 8,000 bytesand/or packet streaming may be used. Additionally, backup/restore engine1414 may detect whether a different software application is executingand, for example, using more than a predetermined percentage ofprocessing time and reduce backup processing in response. As anotherpossibility, server 108 may direct client computing device 104 a todelay or reduce processing, for example, if client computing device 104a is using more than a predetermined allowable transfer amount/rate.

Use of a low priority mode when a user is using client computing device104 a prevents backup and restore application 1412 from slowing downother applications executing at client computing device 104 a or fromslowing down Internet browsing. Prior art backup products require a userto schedule backup execution times. Using backup and restore application1412, the backup may execute continuously, but slow or even stopexecution whenever client computing device 104 a is being used for otherprocessing.

In an operation 406, application icon 202 is added to the system tray ofclient computing device 104 a as known to those skilled in the art. Inan operation 408, files are selected for backup to server system 102.For example, as part of the installation process, a user may select froma plurality of options for selecting the files to backup. The optionsmay be presented to the user using web server application 1500. In anexample embodiment, a user can select an option listing one or morepredefined folders for backup. For example, if client computing device104 a is executing a Windows® operating system, the “My Documents” and“Desktop” folder may be predefined for backup as an option presented toa user. In an example embodiment, a user can select an option not tobackup any files automatically. If a user selects this option, the usermay individually select the files, folders, and/or drives in the filesystem of client computing device 104 a for backup. In an exampleembodiment, a user can select an option to backup all electronic fileson client computing device 104 a.

In an example embodiment, a user can select an option to backup certainfile types automatically or not to backup certain file typesautomatically. For example, all image files may be selected for backupwhile all executable files are not selected for backup. Additionally,certain file/folder/drive types may be excluded from backupautomatically. For example, executable files, dynamic link libraryfiles, temporary folders, hidden system folders, and non-permanent diskdrives such as network and removable drives may be excluded from backup.

The files selected for backup may be determined based on the option(s)selected by the user. This information may be captured in a backupprofile defined for the client computer system as part of theinstallation process. For example, the backup profile may be includedwith the activation data downloaded from server 108. The backup profiledetermines whether a file is, by default, included or excluded frombackup processing.

In an operation 410, a backup status file is created to maintain thebackup status and backup state information for each file selected forbackup. In an example embodiment, the backup status file includes a fullpath and filename for a file, a unique identifier for the file, a dateof last backup of the file, a time of last backup of the file, acreation time of the file, a most recent modification time for the file,a compressed file size of the file, an uncompressed file size of thefile, and a backup state flag indicating a backup state of the file.Backup status information may include the date of last backup of thefile, the time of the last backup of the file, and the most recentmodification time.

The unique identifier for the file may include a device identifier forclient computing device 104 a, a session identifier, a file identifier,and a file version number. In an example embodiment, server 108constructs a folder and filename from the unique identifier. Forexample, the unique identifier may be ‘C317-S342-F000771-V000002’ andthe constructed folder and filename may beC:\C317\S342\C317-S342-F000771-V000002, where ‘C317’ is the deviceidentifier for client computing device 104 a, ‘S342’ is the sessionidentifier, ‘F000771’ is the file identifier, and ‘V000002’ is the fileversion number. Backup state information includes whether or not thefile is to be backed up, is awaiting backup, is to be removed frombackup, etc. Additional files may be created. For example, various logfiles may be created to facilitate the diagnosis of errors that mayoccur during execution of backup and restore application 1412.Additionally, encryption data/digests may be captured in files stored atclient computing device 104 a.

In an operation 412, a backup directory hierarchy is created. The backupdirectory hierarchy includes a user interface that indicates a hierarchyof files, folders, and/or drives selected for backup and is displayed ina file system user interface of client computing device 104 a. Thebackup directory hierarchy shows the same folder structure as thephysical drive of client computing device 104 a. As known to thoseskilled in the art, the drives may be internal hard drives, externalhard drives, external media drives of various types, network drives,etc.

With reference to FIGS. 5 and 14, a first user interface 500 of the filesystem user interface application of client computing device 104 a isprovided. The first user interface 500 includes a virtual folder 502 anda task pane 504. In an example embodiment, the file system userinterface application is the Windows Explorer® application whichprovides a graphical user interface for accessing the file system ofclient computing device 104 a. The backup directory hierarchy created ispresented to a user through interaction with virtual folder 502.

Selection of virtual folder 502 in first user interface 500 causes thenext level in the backup directory hierarchy to be displayed to a userin a folder view. For example, user selection of virtual folder 502causes presentation of a second user interface 600 as shown withreference to FIGS. 6 and 14, in accordance with an example embodiment.Second user interface 600 may include a tree view 602 of the backupdirectory hierarchy and a folder view 604 of the backup directoryhierarchy. As known to those skilled in the art, using tree view 602 ofthe backup directory hierarchy, a user can select a folder for which todisplay its content in folder view 604. For example, in the exampleembodiment of FIG. 6, folder view 604 displays the folders and filesbacked up in the ‘C’ drive of client computing device 104 a. A user canselect a ‘+’ or ‘−’ icon 603 next to a folder icon to collapse or expandthe hierarchical view of the backup directory hierarchy. Tree view 602displays the directory structure of the backup directory hierarchy. Treeview 602 may be replaced with task pane 504 as known to those skilled inthe art.

In an example embodiment, the backup directory hierarchy is implementedas a namespace extension. The Microsoft® Windows shell uses a singlehierarchical namespace to organize all objects, including files, storagedevices, printers, and network resources. The Windows application can bethought of as the shell namespace viewer. Using a namespace extension,the Windows Explorer application presents data to a user as a virtualfolder such as virtual folder 502. A namespace extension is a specialcommon object model (COM) object that provides a mechanism for creatingcustom functionality for the Windows Explorer application. For example,using a namespace extension the Windows Explorer application can becontrolled to create a virtual folder of files/folders/drives in theWindows shell. The backup directory hierarchy is a virtual folder thatdescribes the location of actual files/folders/drives stored on oraccessible from client computing device 104 a and selected for backupusing backup and restore application 1412.

A namespace extension generally consists of two basic components: a datamanager, and an interface between the data manager and the WindowsExplorer application. Thus, there is a separation of functionality. Thedata manager knows the state of backup and restore application 1412, buthas no user interface functionality. In contrast, the interface handlesthe user interface functionality, but does not intrinsically know thestate of backup and restore application 1412. In the example embodiment,backup/restore engine 1414 acts as the data manager for backup andrestore application 1412 by maintaining the current backup status ofeach file/folder/drive. For example, backup/restore engine 1414maintains the status flags in the backup status file.

Backup/restore user interface 1416 acts as the interface for backup andrestore application 1412 by defining the folder objects and handling theinteraction with the Windows Explorer application. The Windows Explorerapplication calls these components to allow users to view and interactwith the backup directory hierarchy as if it were a collection ofdrives, folders, and files. The Windows Explorer application managestree view 602, in which the virtual folder 502 is shown. Virtual foldersmay be defined as folder-like user interfaces that expose thefunctionality provided by a namespace extension. Unlike tree view 602,the Windows Explorer application does not directly control the contentsof folder view 604. Instead, backup/restore user interface 1416 controlsthe display and management of the contents in folder view 604.Backup/restore user interface 1416 and backup/restore engine 1414 maycommunicate with each other using a secure COM channel and sharedregistry access.

Folder view 604 displays the contents of a single folder selected, forexample, in tree view 602. Folder view 604 may include a name column606, a state column 608, a last backup column 610, a backup versionnumber column 612, a purge date column 614, a number of files column616, and a size column 618. Name column 606 includes a list 620 offile/folder/drive names at the selected directory level. For example,state column 608 includes a current backup state for eachfile/folder/drive names included in list 620 at the selected directorylevel. Last backup column 610 includes a last backup time and date foreach file included in list 620. Backup version number column 612includes a version number for each file included in list 620. Purge datecolumn 614 includes a deletion date for each file/folder/drive includedin list 620. Number of files column 616 includes a number of files ineach file/folder/drive included in list 620. In an example embodiment,number of files column 616 may include the number ‘1’ for a file. Sizecolumn 618 includes a size of the files in each file/folder/driveincluded in list 620.

Referring again to FIGS. 4 and 14, in an operation 414, the filesselected for backup are compressed. The files may be compressed singly,in multiple groups (i.e. each folder in a separate group), or into asingle file as known to those skilled in the art. In an operation 414,the compressed file(s) is encrypted. An encryption system can executevarious cryptographic algorithms that alternatively encrypt or decryptdata. As examples, an encryption system can implement the dataencryption standard, the triple data encryption algorithm, the advancedencryption standard, etc. as known to those skilled in the art. In anexample embodiment, backup and restore application 1412 implements theBlowfish encryption algorithm with a 1024 bit key. The Blowfishencryption algorithm uses a private encryption key stored at clientcomputing device 104 a. A copy of the private encryption keys is alsostored in database 110 of server system 102. Data can be recovered onlyby using the same key used to encipher the data. In an operation 418,the encrypted file(s) is sent to server system 102 and stored indatabase 110. For example, the encrypted file(s) may be sent to serversystem 102 using HTTPS to maintain the security of the data duringtransmission through network 106. Encrypting the file(s) and sending theencrypted files using a secure transmission protocol provides two layersof protection for the electronic files. Encryption of the files beforetransfer protects the data that is stored at server system 102, forexample, from employees that may attempt to view the stored electronicfiles that may contain personal information of the user.

In an operation 420, file/folder/drive icons are modified to indicatethe backup status of the respective file/folder/drive. For example,backup/restore user interface 1416 may indicate to the Windows Explorerapplication that an overlay icon for file/folder/drive icons isprovided. An overlay icon is placed over an existing icon representingthe physical file/folder/drive in the Windows Explorer application. TheWindows Explorer application calls backup/restore user interface 1416for each file/folder/drive asking whether to use an overlay icon or not.Backup/restore user interface 1416 checks the status of eachfile/folder/drive using backup/restore engine 1414. Based on thereturned status, backup/restore user interface 1416 tells the WindowsExplorer application whether to use an overlay icon or not.

In an example embodiment, overlay icons that include colored dots in thebottom left hand corner of the icon and are transparent everywhere elseare used. For example, a blue dot overlay icon on a folder icon mayindicate a folder in which all files in that folder (and its subfolders)are selected for backup. A gray dot overlay icon on a folder icon mayindicate that only some subfolders and/or files have been selected forbackup in that folder. A folder icon not marked by a dot may indicatethat there are no files selected for backup in that folder or itssubfolders. Backup/restore engine 1414 analyzes the backup directoryhierarchy to determine the overlay icon appropriate for eachfolder/drive. A yellow dot overlay icon on a file icon may indicate thata file is awaiting backup because it is new or has been modified sincethe last backup. A green dot overlay icon on a file icon may indicate afile that is backed up and has not been modified since the last backup.The lack of any dot on a file icon may indicate the file is not selectedfor backup.

With reference to FIG. 7, a third user interface 700 of the file systemof client computing device 104 a is provided to indicate the physicalfile/folder/drive in the Windows Explorer application. Third userinterface 700 may include a name column 702, a size column 704, a typecolumn 706, and a date/time modified column 708. Name column 702includes a list of file/folder/drive names at the selected directorylevel. Size column 704 includes a size of each file/folder/driveincluded in name column 702 at the selected directory level. Type column706 includes a type of each file/folder/drive included in name column702 at the selected directory level. Date/time modified column 708includes a last modification time and date for each file included inname column 702 at the selected directory level.

A folder icon 710 includes an overlay icon indicating a backup state ofthe folder. A folder icon 712 does not include an overlay icon which mayindicate that no files are selected for backup in that folder or itssubfolders. However, a user can choose to display the overlay icons ornot based on the selection or de-selection of state indicator check box306 shown with reference to FIG. 3. Thus, a folder icon 712 that doesnot include an overlay icon may indicate that the user has de-selectedstate indicator check box 306. A file icon 714 includes an overlay iconindicating a backup state of the file. A file icon 716 does not includean overlay icon which may indicate that the file is not selected forbackup.

In an example embodiment, a user can select a file/folder/drive forbackup or deselect a file/folder/drive from backup using an extension toa context menu. With reference to FIG. 8, a fourth user interface 800 ofthe file system of client computing device 104 a is provided whichincludes a context menu 802 of a selected file/folder/drive. Contextmenu 802 may be displayed for a selected file/folder/drive by a userright-clicking on the file/folder/drive. Selection of a menu item 804presented to the user in context menu 802 causes display of a backupoption menu 806. Backup option menu 806 may include a first option 808that allows a user to request that the selected file/folder/drive not bebacked up. In response to selection of first option 808 and after apredetermined period of time, the selected file/folder/drive is deletedfrom server system 102. In an example embodiment, the predeterminedperiod of time is 24 hours. The time delay allows a user to change theirmind about removing the selected file/folder/drive from backup.

Backup option menu 806 further may include a second option 810 thatallows a user to request that the file type of the selected file not bebacked up. The file type generally is indicated by the file extension asknown to those skilled in the art. For example, if the file type is atext document, selection of second option 810 changes the backup stateof all text documents so that none of them are backed up. A user mayindividually select a text file for backup, however, to override thisselection for individual files. For example, backup option menu 806further may include a third option 812 that allows a user to requestthat the selected file/folder/drive be backed up as soon as possible.

In an example embodiment, a user can determine why a file/folder/drivewill not be backed up by selecting a properties menu item 814 presentedto the user in context menu 802. A “Properties” dialog box is opened andthe user can select a tab in the Properties dialogue box which includesbackup details. For example, with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, a firstproperties dialog box 900 is provided which includes a tab 902.Selection of tab 902 in first properties dialog box 900 displays afolder state identifier 904, a file/folder/drive name indicator 906, abackup size indicator 908, a first backup check box 910, a second backupcheck box 912, a third backup check box 914, an OK button 916, and aCancel button 918. Selection of first backup check box 910 adds theselected file/folder/drive to the files selected for backup. Thus, if auser selects second option 810 to exclude “mp3” files from backupprocessing, the user can select first backup check box 910 for aparticular “mp3” file, and the particular “mp3” file is added to thefiles selected for backup processing.

Selection of second backup check box 912 allows a user to request thatall files having the file type of the selected file be backed up. Forexample, if the file type is a text document, selection of second backupcheck box 912 changes the backup state of all text documents so that allof them are backed up. A user may individually de-select a text file forbackup, however, using first backup check box 910. Selection of thirdbackup check box 914 allows a user to request that the selectedfile/folder/drive be backed up as soon as possible. Selection of OKbutton 916 saves any changes to selections in first properties dialogbox 900. Selection of Cancel button 918 cancels any changes toselections in first properties dialog box 900.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, 4, 6, and 14, in an operation 422, a status ofeach of the files selected for backup is monitored. Additionally, newfiles are identified based on the backup profile to determine if the newfiles should also be backed up. Backup/restore engine 1414 continuouslyscans client computing device 104 a for new and/or modified files to bebacked up whether client computing device 104 a is connected to network106 or not. In an operation 424, a determination is made concerningwhether or not a file has been modified. If a file has been modified,processing continues at an operation 426. If a file has not beenmodified, processing continues at operation 422.

In an example embodiment, modified files are identified using a standardMicrosoft Windows operating system function ReadDirectoryChanges, whichdetects changes in directories and files. A call to the functionReadDirectoryChanges indicates the name and type of change to a filesystem object. If the call returns the name of a file selected forbackup processing, the backup state flag and/or the most recentmodification time in the backup status file may be changed to indicatethat the file should be backed up. Additionally or alternatively, a scanof client computing device 104 a may be performed. A comparison betweenthe status of each file to backup, as maintained in the backup statusfile, and the scan data may be performed to identify modified or newfiles. For example, a checksum value may be executed for a newlymodified file and for the currently backed up version of the file usinga variety of algorithms as known to those skilled in the art includingcryptographic hash functions. If the calculated checksum values aredifferent, a modification to the file is indicated.

In an operation 426, a file state is set to backup. For example, backupstate flags and/or the most recent modification time in the backupstatus file may be set to indicate that the modified file should bebacked up. Additionally, state column 608 of folder view 604 may bechanged to indicate that the file is pending backup.

In an operation 428, a determination is made concerning whether or notto initiate the backup of the changed/new files. If a file backup is tobe initiated, processing continues at an operation 430. If a file backupis not to be initiated at the current time, processing continues atoperation 422. For example, when backup/restore engine 1414 detects thata file has been modified, backup/restore engine 1414 may check to makesure that the file has remained unchanged for a predetermined period oftime before the file is made eligible for backup. In an exampleembodiment, the predetermined period of time is ten minutes. In anexample embodiment, a modified file is backed up once every 24 hours togive users the opportunity to restore the previous version if necessary.For example, if a user modifies a file and saves it, backup/restoreengine 1414 waits ten minutes before backup of the modified file. If auser modifies the file again, backup/restore engine 1414 may wait up to24 hours before backing up the file again. An immediate backup of themodified file can be requested by the user, however, by selecting thirdoption 812 or third backup check box 914 for the modified file.

If client computing device 104 a is disconnected for an extended periodof time, application icon 202 may change to a red color indicating thataccess to network 106 should be restored as soon as possible. As soon asaccess to network 106 is restored, backup/restore engine 1414 mayinitiate the transmission of updates.

In an operation 430, the backup directory hierarchy is updated. Forexample, state column 608 of folder view 604 may be changed to indicatethat the file is backed up and last backup column 610 of folder view 604may be updated to include the backup date and time. Additionally, newfiles may be added to the backup directory hierarchy. In an operation432, the backup status file is updated. For example, the date of lastbackup of the file, the time of last backup of the file, and the backupstate flag indicating the backup state of the file may be updated.

With reference to FIGS. 5, 10, 14, example operations associated with arestore process are described. Additional, fewer, or differentoperations may be performed, depending on the embodiment. In anoperation 1000, backup and restore application 1412 receives a requestto restore a file/folder/drive from a user of client computing device104 a. For example, a user selects virtual folder 502 in first userinterface 500. Virtual folder 502 displays the first level of the backupdirectory hierarchy, which contains a mirror image of the backed upfiles/folders/drives. A user can select a file, a group of files, afolder, a drive, etc. to restore. For example, with reference to FIGS.11 and 14, a fifth user interface 1100 of the file system of clientcomputing device 104 a is provided which includes a folder options menu1106 of a ‘C’ drive 1104. An address bar 1102 indicates the parentfolder of the currently displayed files/folders/drives.

Folder options menu 1106 may include a first option 1108, a secondoption 1110, a third option 1112, and a fourth option 1114. Selection offirst option 1108 opens the selected folder for display in fifth userinterface 1100 and updates address bar 1102 to indicate the selectedfolder. Selection of second option 1110 sends a request to backup andrestore application 1412 to restore the selected folder/drive. Selectionof third option 1112 sends a request to backup and restore application1412 to restore the selected folder/drive to a different location onclient computing device 104 a. The user is prompted to select a locationas known to those skilled in the art.

Selection of fourth option 1114 sends a request to backup and restoreapplication 1412 that the selected folder/drive is no longer selectedfor backup processing. Purge date column 614 of folder view 604indicates the date a deselected folder/drive is removed from serversystem 102 as a result of user selection of fourth option 1114. In anexample embodiment, server system 102 maintains a copy of the selectedfolder/drive for at least 30 days from the time of selection of fourthoption 1114.

As another example, with reference to FIGS. 1, 6, 11, 12, and 14, asixth user interface 1200 of the file system of client computing device104 a is provided which includes a file options menu 1202 of a file1204. Address bar 1102 indicates the parent folder of the currentlydisplayed files/folders/drives. File options menu 1202 may include afirst option 1206, a second option 1208, and a third option 1210.Selection of first option 1206 sends a request to backup and restoreapplication 1412 to restore the selected file. Selection of secondoption 1208 sends a request to backup and restore application 1412 torestore the selected file to a different location on client computingdevice 104 a. The user is prompted to select a location as known tothose skilled in the art. Selection of third option 1210 sends a requestto backup and restore application 1412 to no longer backup the selectedfile. Purge date column 614 of folder view 604 indicates the date adeleted file is removed from server system 102 as a result of userselection of third option 1210. In an example embodiment, server system102 maintains a copy of the selected file for at least 30 days from thetime of selection of third option 1210.

In an operation 1002, the file(s) to restore are identified based on theuser selections. With reference to FIGS. 13 and 14, a restore querywindow 1300 may be displayed to a user if one or more of the file(s)exists in the file system of client computing device 104 a. Restorequery window 1300 may include descriptive text 1302, a “Yes” radiobutton 1304, a “No” radio button 1306, an OK button 1308, and a Cancelbutton 1310. Descriptive text 1302 asks the user if the file should bereplaced or not. Selection of “Yes” radio button 1304 indicates that thefile should be replaced in the file system of client computing device104 a. Selection of “No” radio button 1306 indicates that the fileshould not be replaced in the file system of client computing device 104a. Selection of OK button 1308 accepts the selected radio button option.Selection of Cancel button 1310 does not accept the selected radiobutton option.

In an operation 1004, the request to restore the file(s) is sent toserver system 102. In an example embodiment, the requested file(s) aremapped to the unique identifier for the file and the unique identifieris included with the request. In an operation 1006, the requestedfile(s) are received from server system 102. The requested file(s) maynot include the unique identifier for the file instead of the filenameand location of the file used at client computing device 104 a. As aresult, the unique identifier of the requested file(s) may be mapped tothe filename and location of the file used at client computing device104 a using the information stored in the backup status file.

In an operation 1008, a file system directory structure may be created.For example, if a disk of client computing device 104 a is replaced or auser replaces client computing device 104 a with a new computing device,the files may be restored to the replaced disk or new computing device.As a result, as the files are being restored to the replaced disk or newcomputing device, the file system directory structure is created as thefiles are restored. In an example embodiment, a user may use a browserapplication 1400 to visit a webpage controlled by web server application1500 at server 108. After the user logs into server 108, as known tothose skilled in the art, a “Restore” tab may be selected. The user canselect the files/folders/drives to restore to the replaced disk or newcomputing device using a user interface presented by browser application1400. The files/folders/drives are organized as they were on clientcomputing device 104 a. A user may be asked to “Exit Restore Mode” sothat backup and restore application 1412 initiates backup processing.Alternatively, the “Exit Restore Mode” may be performed automaticallywhen the user logs off server 108.

In an operation 1010, the received file(s) are decrypted. In anoperation 1012, the decrypted file(s) are decompressed. In an operation1014, the decompressed file(s) are stored to the appropriate location inthe file system directory structure. In an operation 430, the backupdirectory hierarchy is updated. In an operation 432, the backup statusfile is updated. Processing continues at operation 420 shown withreference to FIG. 4.

In an example embodiment, server system 102 maintains a copy of afile/folder/drive for at least 30 days from the time of deletion of thefile/folder/drive at client computing device 104 a. As a result, afile/folder/drive which has been deleted accidentally can be restored.Purge date column 614 of folder view 604 indicates the date a deletedfile is to be removed from server system 102.

With reference to FIG. 14, a client computing device 104 a is shown inan example embodiment. Client computing device 104 a may include display1402, input interface 1404, a computer-readable medium 1406, acommunication interface 1408, a processor 1410, browser application1400, backup and restore application 1412, backup/restore engine 1414,and backup/restore user interface 1416. Different and additionalcomponents may be incorporated into client computing device 104 a.

Display 1402 presents information to a user of computing device 104 a asknown to those skilled in the art. For example, display 1402 may be athin film transistor display, a light emitting diode display, a liquidcrystal display, or any of a variety of different displays known tothose skilled in the art now or in the future.

Input interface 1404 provides an interface for receiving informationfrom the user for entry into computing device 104 a as known to thoseskilled in the art. Input interface 1404 may use various inputtechnologies including, but not limited to, a keyboard, a pen and touchscreen, a mouse, a track ball, a touch screen, a keypad, one or morebuttons, etc. to allow the user to enter information into computingdevice 104 a or to make selections presented in a user interfacedisplayed on display 1402. Input interface 1404 may provide both aninput and an output interface. For example, a touch screen both allowsuser input and presents output to the user.

Computer-readable medium 1406 is an electronic holding place or storagefor information such as a memory so that the information can be accessedby processor 1410 as known to those skilled in the art.Computer-readable medium 1406 can include, but is not limited to, anytype of random access memory (RAM), any type of read only memory (ROM),any type of flash memory, etc. such as magnetic storage devices (e.g.,hard disk, floppy disk, magnetic strips, . . . ), optical disks (e.g.,compact disk (CD), digital versatile disk (DVD), . . . ), smart cards,flash memory devices, tapes, etc. Computing device 104 a may have one ormore memories that use the same or a different memory technology. Memoryis further any type of random access memory (RAM), any type of read onlymemory (ROM), any type of flash memory, etc. such as magnetic storagedevices (e.g., hard disk, floppy disk, magnetic strips, . . . ), opticaldisks (e.g., compact disk (CD), digital versatile disk (DVD), . . . ),smart cards, flash memory devices, tapes, etc.

Communication interface 1408 provides an interface for receiving andtransmitting messages, files, and any other information communicablebetween devices using various protocols, transmission technologies, andmedia as known to those skilled in the art.

Processor 1410 executes instructions as known to those skilled in theart. The instructions may be carried out by a special purpose computer,logic circuits, or hardware circuits. Thus, processor 1410 may beimplemented in hardware, firmware, software, or any combination of thesemethods. The term “execution” is the process of running an applicationor the carrying out of the operation called for by an instruction. Theinstructions may be written using one or more programming language,scripting language, assembly language, etc. Processor 1410 executes aninstruction, meaning that it performs the operations called for by thatinstruction. Processor 1410 operably couples with display 1402, withinput interface 1404, with computer-readable medium 1406, and withcommunication interface 1408 to receive, to send, and to processinformation. Processor 1410 may retrieve a set of instructions from apermanent memory device and copy the instructions in an executable formto a temporary memory device that is generally some form of RAM.Computing device 104 a may include a plurality of processors that usethe same or a different processing technology.

Backup and restore application 1412 performs operations associated withbackup and restore processes. Some or all of the operations andinterfaces described with reference to FIGS. 2-13 may be embodied inbackup and restore application 1412. The operations may be implementedusing hardware, firmware, software, or any combination of these methods.With reference to the example embodiment of FIG. 14, backup and restoreapplication 1412 is implemented in software stored in computer-readablemedium 1406 and accessible by processor 1410 for execution of theinstructions that embody the operations of backup and restoreapplication 1412. Backup and restore application 1412 may be writtenusing one or more programming languages, assembly languages, scriptinglanguages, etc. Backup and restore application 1412 may instantiatebackup/restore engine 1414 and backup/restore user interface 1416.

With reference to FIG. 15, components of server system 102 are shown inaccordance with an example embodiment. Server system 102 includes server108. Server 108 may include a display 1502, an input interface 1504, acomputer-readable medium 1506, a communication interface 1508, aprocessor 1510, web server application 1500, a file system managerapplication 1512, and a bandwidth manager application 1514. Differentand additional components may be incorporated into server 108. Server108 and/or database 110 may store copies of the files selected forbackup processing. Information about client computing systems 104 may bestored and maintained in database 110. For example, installation andregistration information related to client computing systems 104 may bestored in database 110. Server 108 may comprise a plurality of computingdevices.

Display 1502 presents information to a user of server 108 as known tothose skilled in the art. For example, display 1502 may be a thin filmtransistor display, a light emitting diode display, a liquid crystaldisplay, or any of a variety of different displays known to thoseskilled in the art now or in the future.

Input interface 1504 provides an interface for receiving informationfrom the user for entry into server 108 as known to those skilled in theart. Input interface 1504 may use various input technologies including,but not limited to, a keyboard, a pen and touch screen, a mouse, a trackball, a touch screen, a keypad, one or more buttons, etc. to allow theuser to enter information into server 108 or to make selectionspresented in a user interface displayed on display 1502. Input interface1504 may provide both an input and an output interface. For example, atouch screen both allows user input and presents output to the user.

Computer-readable medium 1506 is an electronic holding place or storagefor information so that the information can be accessed by processor1510 as known to those skilled in the art. Computer-readable medium 1506can include, but is not limited to, any type of random access memory(RAM), any type of read only memory (ROM), any type of flash memory,etc. such as magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disk, floppy disk,magnetic strips, . . . ), optical disks (e.g., compact disk (CD),digital versatile disk (DVD), . . . ), smart cards, flash memorydevices, tape, etc. Server 108 may have one or more memories that usethe same or a different memory technology.

Communication interface 1508 provides an interface for receiving andtransmitting messages, files, and any other information communicablebetween devices using various protocols, transmission technologies, andmedia as known to those skilled in the art.

Processor 1510 executes instructions as known to those skilled in theart. The instructions may be carried out by a special purpose computer,logic circuits, or hardware circuits. Thus, processor 1510 may beimplemented in hardware, firmware, software, or any combination of thesemethods. Processor 1510 executes an instruction, meaning that itperforms the operations called for by that instruction. Processor 1510operably couples with display 1502, with input interface 1504, withcomputer-readable medium 1506, and with communication interface 1508 toreceive, to send, and to process information. Processor 1510 mayretrieve a set of instructions from a permanent memory device and copythe instructions in an executable form to a temporary memory device thatis generally some form of RAM. Server 108 may include a plurality ofprocessors that use the same or a different processing technology.

File system manager application 1512 performs operations associated withmanaging a file system which supports backup and restore processes forthe plurality of computing devices 104. Some or all of the operationsdescribed with reference to FIG. 16 may be embodied in file systemmanager application 1512. The operations may be implemented usinghardware, firmware, software, or any combination of these methods. Withreference to the example embodiment of FIG. 15, file system managerapplication 1512 is implemented in software stored in computer-readablemedium 1506 and accessible by processor 1510 for execution of theinstructions that embody the operations of file system managerapplication 1512. File system manager application 1512 may be writtenusing one or more programming languages, assembly languages, scriptinglanguages, etc.

Bandwidth manager application 1514 performs operations associated withmanaging a bandwidth usage of the plurality of computing devices 104utilizing the backup and restore processes of server system 102.Bandwidth manager application 1514 implements and enforces a set ofpolicies that govern the rate at which client computing devices 104 areallowed to upload client files to and download client files from serversystem 102. The overall available rate (bandwidth) is configured atserver system 102 and divided among the client computing devices usingserver system 102. Some or all of the operations described withreference to FIGS. 17-18 may be embodied in bandwidth managerapplication 1514. The operations may be implemented using hardware,firmware, software, or any combination of these methods. With referenceto the example embodiment of FIG. 15, bandwidth manager application 1514is implemented in software stored in computer-readable medium 1506 andaccessible by processor 1510 for execution of the instructions thatembody the operations of bandwidth manager application 1514. Bandwidthmanager application 1514 may be written using one or more programminglanguages, assembly languages, scripting languages, etc.

Backup files may be organized by file system manager application 1512using the unique identifier assigned to each client file received basedon the device identifier for client computing device 104 a, the sessionidentifier, the file identifier, and the file version number associatedwith each file. Web server application 1500 may assign the deviceidentifier for client computing device 104 a when backup and restoreapplication 1412 is installed and registered. The session identifier iscreated/updated each time client computing device 104 a connects toserver 108 and may start at one and increment each time a user connectsto server 108. The file identifier is created by backup and restoreapplication 1412 for each file selected for backup processing. The fileidentifier may include a counter incremented for each file selected forbackup from client computing device 104 a. The file version numberdistinguishes different versions of the same file and may be incrementedwhen a file is modified.

File system manager application 1512 provides reliable, massive datastorage that can be moved at high data rates between network 106, randomaccess storage (disk), and sequential access storage (tape). Thefunctionality provided by file system manager application 1512 may bedistributed across a plurality of computing devices which interact toprovide the described functionality as known to those skilled in theart. In an example embodiment, server system 102 further includes afirst storage device 1530, a second storage device 1532, and a thirdstorage device 1534. Server 108 is in communication with first storagedevice 1530, second storage device 1532, and third storage device 1534.Server 108, first storage device 1530, second storage device 1532, andthird storage device 1534 may communicate using various transmissionmedia that may be wired or wireless and may be connected directly orthrough a network. Server 108, first storage device 1530, second storagedevice 1532, and third storage device 1534 may include computers of anyform factor including servers and mainframes. Server system 102 mayinclude a fewer or a greater number of devices without limitation. Firststorage device 1530, second storage device 1532, and third storagedevice 1534 further may include electronic file storage systems of anymedia type including optical media storage, magnetic media storage,semiconductor media storage, magneto-optical media storage, etc. thatprovide random and/or sequential data access.

With reference to FIGS. 15 and 16, example operations associated withfile system manager application 1512 are described. Additional, fewer,or different operations may be performed, depending on the embodiment.The order of the operations is not intended to be limiting. In anoperation 1600, server system 102 receives a plurality of electronicfiles 1520 from client computing device 104 a using network 106. In anexample embodiment, web server application 1500 provides the interfacesaccessed by the user using browser application 1400. In an exampleembodiment, server 108 receives the plurality of electronic files 1520.In an alternative embodiment, first storage device 1530 may receive theplurality of electronic files 1520 directly from client computing device104 a or from server 108.

In an example embodiment, the received plurality of electronic files1520 have been encrypted and compressed before sending to server system102. For example, the plurality of electronic files 1520 may have beensent to server system 102 based on execution of operation 418 of FIG. 4by backup and restore application 1412 executing at client computingdevice 104 a. The received plurality of electronic files 1520 are storedas individual client files at server system 102. The client files may bestored in compressed or uncompressed format and in encrypted orunencrypted format. In an example embodiment, the client files arestored in compressed and encrypted format on first storage device 1530.

In an operation 1602, the client files are stored in a directorystructure at first storage device 1530 that is organized by the deviceidentifier for client computing device 104 a and the session identifier.The directory structure may be created as the client files are stored atfirst storage device 1530. The device identifier for client computingdevice 104 a determines a base directory for all files backed up fromclient computing device 104 a. Below the base directory is a sessionsub-directory created based on the session identifier. Below eachsession sub-directory are the files backed up from client computingdevice 104 a during that session. The filenames may be constructed basedon the device identifier for client computing device 104 a, the sessionidentifier, the file identifier, and the file version number. Forexample, C:\C317\S342\C317-S342-F000771-V000002 includes the absolutepath and filename of a file stored at first storage device 1530. As aresult, first storage device 1530 need not keep track of the originalfilename or pathname. A mapping of the original filename to the filenameas stored on first storage device 1530 may be maintained at clientcomputing device 104 a, for example, in the backup status file. In anexample embodiment, first storage device 1530 is a redundant disksystem.

In operation 1604, whether or not the stored files are an update to anexisting block file is determined. If the stored files are not anupdate, processing continues at an operation 1606. If the stored filesare an update, processing continues at an operation 1608. In an exampleembodiment, client files are stored in one or more block files which arelarge files. Client files generally are smaller than a block file thoughvery large client files may span a plurality of block files. A blockfile is grown in units of a “block” such that another block of memory isallocated for the block file after a previously allocated block ofmemory is filled. For example, the size of a block may be four megabytes(MB), and the size of a block file may be one gigabyte (GB). Smaller orlarger sizes having different relationships may be used withoutlimitation and may be optimized based on the computer system on whichthe storage process is implemented.

A block file includes several layers of headers and trailers toefficiently and reliably organize the client files stored within. Theinformation included in the headers/trailers may be organized intofields of various bit lengths. In an example embodiment, the block fileincludes a block file header, a block header, a cluster header, theclient file header, the client file trailer, a client file piece header,a block trailer, and a skip header. Each of the headers/trailers includefields that indicate the type and size of the header/trailers. Thestructure of the block file minimizes or eliminates the need to write toa particular offset in the block file more than once. Thus, the blockfile is written to at ever increasing offsets. For example, the overallsize of a client file is contained in a client file trailer instead of aclient file header. As a result, the client file header is not updatedonce the overall size of a file is determined. Use of this techniqueeliminates potential inconsistencies in a block file when a later offsetis written to and the system crashes before an earlier offset isupdated.

In an example embodiment, the block file header appears at the beginningof each block file and includes application-specific information and thetype of data stored in the block file. Storing client files in blockfiles made up of blocks supports increased performance because diskfragmentation is minimized, because the sending and receiving computingdevices can optimize their buffering techniques based on the uniform,large size, and because computer disk and tape systems work mostefficiently when large amounts of data are sent to them at very fast andconsistent rates.

In an example embodiment, the block header appears at the beginning ofeach block and includes a size of the block, a block number, the uniqueidentifier of a first client file stored in the block, and a firsttimestamp when the client sent the first client file stored in the blockto server system 102. In an example embodiment, the block trailerappears at the end of each block and includes a next offset in the blockfile to write to, the unique identifier of a last client file stored inthe block, and a last timestamp when the client sent the last clientfile stored in the block to server system 102. The next offset may bedefined based on a memory address of a next block of memory allocatedfor the block file. In an example embodiment, the skip header appears inthe block file if there is unused space in a block. For example, ifthere are a small number of bytes remaining in a block such that noteven a header can fit in the remaining space in the block, the skipheader is added to indicate that the next meaningful information is atthe beginning of the next block.

A typical server disk sub-system includes a plurality of disk drives,which each provide sector remapping features to provide automaticrecovery from disk sector failures. The disk drives are connected to adisk controller which may provide redundant array of independent drives(RAID) features to provide automatic recovery from a disk drive failure.The disk controller may be controlled by a software driver which isintegrated into the operating system (OS) of first storage device 1530.Despite the many reliability features built into a server disksub-system, failures are still relatively common in high usage 24/7operations. To support reliable data recovery in the event of a diskfailure, the client files also are stored in clusters at first storagedevice 1530. In an example embodiment, a size of the cluster is selectedto match an allocation unit size of the OS file system so that clusterread/write operations become “atomic.” For example, a cluster size of 64kilobytes (kB) may be used for the Windows NT file system.

In an example embodiment, the cluster header appears at the start ofeach cluster and includes a unique data value to identify it as a validcluster header, the unique file identifier (UFI), and a cluster sequencenumber. In an example embodiment, the unique data value is a valueunlikely to occur randomly so that when the value is identified, theoccurrence likely indicates a cluster. Thus, the unique data value canbe used as an integrity check. Depending on the size of the client fileand the cluster size, the client file may be divided into a plurality ofclusters. At the start of each client file, directly after the clusterheader, the client file header includes sufficient data to allow thefile's name and directory location to be reconstructed and a timestampthat indicates the time that client computing device 104 a sent the fileto server system 102. Subsequent clusters including portions of theclient file do not include the client file header. Thus, the client fileheader is included in the first cluster which includes the client file.A series of clusters are linked together by the cluster headers whichcontain the same UFI. The cluster sequence number indicates the order inwhich the file is subdivided and written to the clusters. If a clientfile is deleted, the client file header and the cluster header of thefirst cluster storing the client file are updated to indicate that theclient file is no longer a valid file.

Data integrity checks can be performed by reading the chain of clusterheaders within a block file and ensuring that the UFIs, cluster sequencenumbers, and the file name/location information is correct. In the eventof a disk sub-system failure, the data can be recovered by reading eachcluster on the disk. The data may be read quickly by optimizing theorder in which clusters are read. Each cluster header read is examinedand the cluster contents are linked into a cluster list for each UFI.When the cluster with sequence number zero is read indicating the firstcluster, a deleted file check is performed. If the file is marked asdeleted, the cluster list is discarded. If it is valid the additionalfile name/location data is recorded. When all clusters have been read,the client files may be reconstructed from the cluster lists and filename/location data. If a cluster has been corrupted or is unreadable,the undamaged part of the client file can be recovered. Thus, eachclient file can be recovered up to the last cluster that was writtensuccessfully. Only if the first cluster is unreadable is an entireclient file unrecoverable.

In an example embodiment, the client file trailer appears after the dataassociated with the client file and includes a size of the client file,where the client file header is located in the block file, and whetheror not the client file is complete. In an example embodiment, the clientfile piece header appears zero or more times for each client file, andcontains a piece number and a size of the client file. The client filepiece header is added to the block file whenever the transfer of aclient file from client computing device 104 a to server system 102 isinterrupted. The client file piece header aids in resuming the transferof the interrupted client file.

When a user at client computing device 104 a requests a client file fromserver 108, the request includes a timestamp included with the clientfile when the client file was sent to server system 102. The timestampincluded in the request is used to efficiently search the block file forthe client file requested using the timestamps included in the blockheader and the block trailer.

Client computing device 104 a may send and receive files in smallpackets through intermediate servers on the way to and from serversystem 102. In these situations, performance may be improved when theintermediate servers buffer the small packets into large buffers beforeforwarding them to client computing device 104 a or server system 102.The size of the larger buffers can be determined either by an absolutesize threshold or by an idle timeout period. Using large buffers betweenintermediate servers and server system 102 improves performance byreducing network protocol overhead and by allowing file system managerapplication 1512 to store less header and trailer information in theblock file resulting in a smaller block file and faster processing.

With continuing reference to FIG. 16, in operation 1606, the clientfiles are added to the existing block file. In operation 1608, the blockfile is created and the client files are added to the created blockfile. In an operation 1610, whether or not a test criterion is satisfiedis determined, for example, if a more cost effective storage solution isavailable for infrequently accessed/updated client files. In an exampleembodiment, the test criterion is expiration of a time period fromreceipt of the plurality of electronic files 1520. For example, the testcriterion may be three months. Other test criteria may be used. If thecriterion is not satisfied, processing continues at operation 1600 topossibly received additional client files from client computing device104 a. If the criterion is satisfied, processing continues at anoperation 1612. In operation 1612, the block file is copied to secondstorage device 1532. In an example embodiment, second storage device1532 is a high-speed, non-redundant disk system that provides randomdata access and may be a less expensive storage option.

In an operation 1614, whether or not a previous block file is stored onthird storage device 1534 is determined. In an example embodiment, thirdstorage device 1534 includes a robotic magnetic tape library thatprovides sequential data access. If a previous block file is not storedon third storage device 1534, processing continues at an operation 1616.In operation 1616, the block file is copied to third storage device 1534and processing continues at an operation 1626.

If a previous block file is stored on third storage device 1534,processing continues at an operation 1618. In operation 1618, theprevious block file is copied from third storage device 1534 to secondstorage device 1532. For example, the previous block file is copied froma first tape of third storage device 1534 to second storage device 1532.In operation 1620, the previous block file is consolidated with theblock file copied from first storage device 1530 to form a second blockfile. For example, client files that the user at client computing device104 a has requested no longer be backed-up may not be included in thesecond block file. Additionally, client files deleted from clientcomputing device 104 a may not be included in the second block file.

In an operation 1622, the second block file is copied to third storagedevice 1534. For example, the second block file may be copied to asecond tape. In an operation 1624, the previous block file is deletedfrom third storage device 1534. For example, the previous block file maybe deleted from the first tape. In operation 1626, the block file isdeleted from first storage device 1530. In an operation 1628, the blockfile, the previous block file, and/or the second block file are deletedfrom second storage device 1532. An index of client files stored onthird storage device 1534 may be stored in database 110. The directorystructure created at first storage device 1530 may also be deleted aftercreation of the block file.

With reference to FIGS. 15 and 17-18, example operations associated withbandwidth manager application 1514 are described. Additional, fewer, ordifferent operations may be performed, depending on the embodiment. Theorder of the operations is not intended to be limiting. In an operation1700, a request is received from client computing device 104 a. Forexample, the request may be a request to upload a modified client fileto server system 102 or to restore a client file to client computingdevice 104 a from server system 102. In an operation 1702, a clientauthentication is performed based on information included in the requestto authenticate use of the backup/restore system by client computingdevice 104 a. For example, database 110 may include data from which toauthenticate client computing device 104 a using data included in therequest. If client computing device 104 a is authenticated, a clientgroup for client computing device 104 a is determined in an operation1704. For example, with reference to FIG. 18, seven computing devices104 b of the plurality of computing devices 104 is accessing serversystem 102. The seven computing devices 104 b are organized into a firstclient group 1800, a second client group 1802, and a third client group1804. Client computing device 104 a is a member of first client group1800. The client groups may be based on a type of subscription. Theinformation relating the client computing device 104 a with a clientgroup may be stored in database 110.

In an operation 1706, a bandwidth policy is selected based on thedetermined client group. The bandwidth policy information may be storedin database 110. The bandwidth policy may include a plurality ofsettings that are applied to each client computing device in the clientgroup. Settings may include: a maximum upload short-term rate, aguaranteed upload short-term rate, a maximum download short-term rate, aguaranteed download short-term rate, a maximum upload long-term rate, aguaranteed upload long-term rate, a maximum download long-term rate, anda guaranteed download long-term rate. In an example embodiment, ashort-term may be, for example, approximately one minute toapproximately an hour, and a long-term may be, for example,approximately one day to approximately one week. In an exampleembodiment, the short-term and long-term time intervals can be adjustedby a user of server 108.

In an operation 1708, a system bandwidth usage is determined based on acurrent usage of the bandwidth by the seven computing devices 104 b. Inan operation 1710, an upload/download rate is determined for clientcomputing device 104 a based on the determined system bandwidth usageand the selected bandwidth policy. For example, for each of the sevencomputing devices 104 b, server 108 measures the number of bitsuploaded/downloaded every five seconds, and from that informationcalculates the kilobits per second that the computing device isuploading/downloading from server 108. Server 108 maintains an aggregatemaximum bandwidth over which the sum of the bandwidths of the sevencomputing devices 104 b may not exceed. When there is a moderateshortage of bandwidth, server 108 distributes bandwidth to the sevencomputing devices 104 b above the guaranteed rates according toadditional group policies. A moderate shortage of bandwidth may beindicated when the seven computing devices 104 b can upload/download atthe guaranteed short-term and long-term rates, but not all of the sevencomputing devices 104 b can upload or download at their maximumshort-term and long-term rates.

In an example embodiment, the client group bandwidth policy determinesthe order that the following example criteria may be applied whengranting bandwidth above the guaranteed short-term and long-term rates:upload versus download, type of client files uploaded/downloaded, amountof credit based on past low-bandwidth usage, and amount of credit basedon low server disk space utilization. For example, a bandwidth policycan be established that favors client computing devices that aredownloading client files over client computing devices that areuploading client files. The bandwidth policy may also consider sometypes of client files to have a higher priority than other types ofclient files.

When there is a shortage of bandwidth, a scale-back percentage iscalculated and applied to the guaranteed rates of all of the sevencomputing devices 104 b. A shortage of bandwidth may be indicated whennot all client computing devices can upload/download at the guaranteedshort-term and long-term rates.

A bandwidth policy may define a series of long-term rates which becomeactive after a previous rate expires. For example, a bandwidth policy'sinitial guaranteed and maximum long-term rates may last until a clienthas uploaded 25 GB of client files, at which time new guaranteed andmaximum long-term rates may take effect. If a client computing devicedoes not use the entire allotment of guaranteed bandwidth for ashort-term period and/or a long-term period, the client computing deviceis given a credit for the unused bandwidth during a next usage period bythe client computing device. In an example embodiment, a credit is notcarried over for more than one period. A bandwidth policy may specifythat certain types of data are not counted in bandwidth calculations.For example, control and protocol messages that are exchanged betweenthe plurality of client computing devices 104 and server system 102 maybe disregarded.

If there is sufficient overall bandwidth and the client computing deviceuses the full bandwidth allotment during an interval, the clientcomputing device may be given a percentage (based on policy settings)more bandwidth during the next interval. If the client computing deviceagain uses the full allotment, the client computing device may be givenadditional bandwidth the following interval, and so on until the clientcomputing device reaches the maximum rates. Conversely, if the clientcomputing device does not use the full bandwidth allotment in aninterval, the client computing device may be given a percentage (basedon policy settings) less bandwidth during the next interval, and so on.Managing the bandwidth allotments in this manner increases thelikelihood that bandwidth is not allocated to a client computing devicethat is not capable of using the bandwidth to avoid wasting bandwidth.

In an operation 1712, server 108 sends a response to client computingdevice 104 a which includes a duration of a next bandwidth interval anda number of bytes client computing device 104 a is allowed toupload/download during the next bandwidth interval. The number of bytesis calculated based on the determined upload/download rate and theduration of the next bandwidth interval. Processing is repeated for eachof the plurality of client computing devices 104 accessing server 108.As a result, bandwidth allocations and usage responds to current systemrequirements based on the bandwidth policy associated with each clientgroup.

The word “example” is used herein to mean serving as an example,instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as“example” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred oradvantageous over other aspects or designs. Further, for the purposes ofthis disclosure and unless otherwise specified, “a” or “an” means “oneor more”.

The example embodiments may be implemented as a method, apparatus, orarticle of manufacture using standard programming and/or engineeringtechniques to produce software, firmware, hardware, or any combinationthereof to control a computer to implement the disclosed embodiments.

The foregoing description of example embodiments of the invention havebeen presented for purposes of illustration and of description. It isnot intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the preciseform disclosed, and modifications and variations are possible in lightof the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of theinvention. For example, the described example embodiments focused on animplementation designed to operate on a computer system executing aMicrosoft Windows based operating system. The present invention,however, is not limited to a particular operating environment. Thoseskilled in the art will recognize that the system and methods of thepresent invention may be advantageously operated on different platformsusing different operating systems including, but not limited to,Macintosh®, LINUX, and UNIX® based operating systems.

Additionally, the functionality described may be implemented in a singleexecutable or application or may be distributed among modules thatdiffer in number and distribution of functionality from those describedherein without deviating from the spirit of the invention. Additionally,the order of execution of the functions may be changed without deviatingfrom the spirit of the invention. The embodiments were chosen anddescribed in order to explain the principles of the invention and aspractical applications of the invention to enable one skilled in the artto utilize the invention in various embodiments and with variousmodifications as suited to the particular use contemplated. It isintended that the scope of the invention be defined by the claimsappended hereto and their equivalents.

1-20. (canceled)
 21. A method of managing bandwidth usage among aplurality of client devices, comprising: receiving, by a first devicefrom a second device, a request to transfer a file between the firstdevice and the second device; determining, by the first device, a datatransfer rate for transferring the file between the first device and thesecond device, based on a transfer criterion of the second device at thefirst device; determining, by the first device, a number of bytes totransfer between the first device and the second device during atransfer period based on the determined data transfer rate; and sending,by the first device to the second device, a response including thedetermined number of bytes to transfer during the transfer period. 22.The method of claim 21, wherein the transfer criterion comprises adirection of transfer of the file between the first device and thesecond device.
 23. The method of claim 21, wherein the transfercriterion comprises a type of file of the file to be transferred. 24.The method of claim 21, wherein the transfer criterion comprises amemory usage of less than a predetermined amount at the first device bythe second device.
 25. The method of claim 21, wherein the transfercriterion comprises a credit based on past low-bandwidth usage.
 26. Themethod of claim 21, further comprising determining a client groupassociated with the second device, and wherein determining the datatransfer rate comprises determining the data transfer rate based on aselected bandwidth usage policy based on the determined client group.27. The method of claim 21, wherein sending a response to the seconddevice further comprises sending a response including a duration of thetransfer period.
 28. A system for managing bandwidth usage among aplurality of client devices, comprising: a device comprising a processorand a communication interface, wherein the processor is configured for:receiving, from a second device via the communication interface, arequest to transfer a file between the first device and the seconddevice; determining a data transfer rate for transferring the filebetween the first device and the second device, based on a transfercriterion of the second device at the first device; determining a numberof bytes to transfer between the first device and the second deviceduring a transfer period based on the determined data transfer rate; andsending, to the second device via the communication interface, aresponse including the determined number of bytes to transfer during thetransfer period.
 29. The system of claim 28, wherein the transfercriterion comprises a direction of transfer of the file between thefirst device and the second device.
 30. The system of claim 28, whereinthe transfer criterion comprises a type of file of the file to betransferred.
 31. The system of claim 28, wherein the transfer criterioncomprises a memory usage of less than a predetermined amount at thefirst device by the second device.
 32. The system of claim 28, whereinthe transfer criterion comprises a credit based on past low-bandwidthusage.
 33. The system of claim 28, wherein the processor is furtherconfigured for determining a client group associated with the seconddevice, and wherein determining the data transfer rate comprisesdetermining the data transfer rate based on a selected bandwidth usagepolicy based on the determined client group.
 34. The system of claim 28,wherein the processor is further configured for sending a response tothe second device via the communication interface including a durationof the transfer period.
 35. A method of managing bandwidth usage among aplurality of client devices, comprising: receiving, by a first devicefrom a second device, a request to transfer a file between the firstdevice and the second device; selecting, by the first device, abandwidth policy associated with the second device, the bandwidth policyidentifying a first data transfer rate; adjusting, by the first device,the first data transfer rate based on a data transfer criterion of thesecond device at the first device; determining, by the first device, anumber of bytes to transfer between the first device and the seconddevice during a transfer period based on the adjusted first datatransfer rate; and sending, by the first device to the second device, aresponse including the determined number of bytes to transfer during thetransfer period.
 36. The method of claim 35, wherein adjusting the firstdata transfer rate comprises increasing the first data transfer ratebased on a storage usage by the second device at the first device beingbelow a predetermined amount.
 37. The method of claim 35, whereinadjusting the first data transfer rate comprises increasing the firstdata transfer rate by a credit based on a number of bytes actuallytransferred between the first device and the second device during aprevious transfer period being less than a previously determined numberof bytes to transfer during the previous transfer period.
 38. The methodof claim 35, wherein adjusting the first data transfer rate comprisesincreasing the first data transfer rate based on a number of bytesactually transferred between the first device and the second devicebeing equal to a previously determined number of bytes to transferduring the previous transfer period.
 39. The method of claim 38, furthercomprising increasing the first data transfer rate to a maximum datatransfer rate identified by the bandwidth policy.
 40. The method ofclaim 35, wherein adjusting the first data transfer rate comprisesdecreasing the first data transfer rate based on a number of bytesactually transferred between the first device and the second devicebeing less than a previously determined number of bytes to transferduring the previous transfer period.